See the Progress

What Is the Green Igloo?

In 2009, we were approached by the homeowner and Amicus Green Building, a local consulting firm we've had a previous relationship with. Could we take some blueprints and produce a stand-alone structure and come as close to Passive House specs as possible? While the original intent of the drawings was not to build the most energy efficient structure, we were going to give our client exactly what she wanted.

From the Passive House US website:

A Passive House is a very well-insulated, virtually air-tight building that is primarily heated by passive solar gain and by internal gains from people, electrical equipment, etc. Energy losses are minimized. Any remaining heat demand is provided by an extremely small source. Avoidance of heat gain through shading and window orientation also helps to limit any cooling load, which is similarly minimized. An energy recovery ventilator provides a constant, balanced fresh air supply. The result is an impressive system that not only saves up to 90% of space heating costs, but also provides a uniquely terrific indoor air quality.